In just one semester, the University’s diverse students made strides toward greater involvement, acceptance and overall success on campus.
Saudi Arabian students made their presence known at the Student Involvement Fair by wearing traditional Saudi dress and chatting with curious passersby about what their culture is about.
“Our main goal is to show Americans and especially LSU students our country and our culture,” said petroleum engineering senior and Saudi Club Cultural Secretary Ibrahim Al Sowayigh.
The club brought University Saudi students together for Saudi National Day and members said although showing their culture to others is important, building a community for Saudi students to feel at home on campus is important, too.
The International Cultural Center worked hard to make international students feel at home at the University despite diverse backgrounds.
The ICC tailgates brought international and domestic students together to have fun and enjoy a quintessential American and University tradition.
President of the International Student Association Ruoxi Chen said the tailgates were successful and wants them to continue for years to come.
International students had fun this semester, but also worked hard.
Petroleum engineering and geology senior Citra Inaray, who is originally from Indonesia, utilized campus resources like Career Services to work toward her goal of finding a job before her December 2013 graduation.
After successful experiences attending workshops, informational sessions, networking receptions and the Career Expo, Inaray feels optimistic about her future.
The University’s LGBTQ community also made strides this semester, putting on Rainbow Rush and celebrating National Coming Out Day, just two of many events that highlight the actions of involved students actively working toward increased LGBTQ rights.
The University’s Office of Multicultural Affairs debuted updates to the Safe Space Campaign, an advocacy and support system that works to make campus a comfortable environment for students, faculty and staff regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.
“When I came in August, I did an assessment and saw some ways we could improve the program,” said LGBTQ Project Coordinator Chad Freeman, who presented the updates Saturday.
The University’s African American Cultural Center held a Kwanzaa event to educate the community about the importance of heritage and family values.
“During this time of year, we think about the connections we have with family and the ancestors that we miss,” said Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Life and College of Education professor Darrell Ray. “Our connections drive us and push us, and we are excited to progress and move on to better days.”
LSU African American Cultural Center's Annual Pre-Kwanzaa Celebration Keynote Speaker and Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Life and Enrollment Dr. Darrell Ray speaks about the importance of Kwanzaa on Tuesday night in the Atchafalaya Room in the Student Union.
